Difference between revisions of "WZ305"

From War Thunder Wiki
Jump to: navigation, search
Visual (beta)Wikitext
m (→‎See also: - added link to Russian tree variant)
(Edits)
Line 7: Line 7:
 
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} Chinese SPAA {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.95 "Northern Wind"]].
 
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} Chinese SPAA {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.95 "Northern Wind"]].
  
−
The Chinese counterpart to the infamous [[ZSU-57-2]], the WZ305 will feel very familiar to veteran users of the "Sparka". While outwardly similar, there are some differences. The hull is developed from a later [[Type 69]] variant, as opposed to the ZSU's chassis derived from the T-54. Cosmetic differences include fender-mounted headlights, side skirts, and the retention of all five road wheels. The WZ305's hull is better armored, though this adds about 3 tons to its weight, and has a slightly more powerful engine. Firepower wise it enjoys a new DKY-1 airburst HE shell that makes it much easier to use against aircraft.
+
The Chinese counterpart to the infamous [[ZSU-57-2]], the WZ305 will feel very familiar to veteran users of the "Sparka". While outwardly similar, there are some differences. The hull is developed from a later [[Type 69]] variant, as opposed to the ZSU's chassis derived from the T-54. Cosmetic differences include fender-mounted headlights, side skirts, and the retention of all five road wheels. The WZ305's hull is better armoured, though this adds about 3 tons to its weight, and has a slightly more powerful engine. Firepower wise it enjoys a new DKY-1 airburst HE shell that makes it much easier to use against aircraft.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
−
<!--''Describe armour protection. Note the most well protected and key weak areas. Appreciate the layout of modules as well as the number and location of crew members. Is the level of armour protection sufficient, is the placement of modules helpful for survival in combat? If necessary use a visual template to indicate the most secure and weak zones of the armour.''-->
+
<!-- ''Describe armour protection. Note the most well protected and key weak areas. Appreciate the layout of modules as well as the number and location of crew members. Is the level of armour protection sufficient, is the placement of modules helpful for survival in combat? If necessary use a visual template to indicate the most secure and weak zones of the armour.'' -->
  
−
Compared to the ZSU-57-2, the upper glacis is significantly thicker at 45 mm of RHA compared to the original 13.5mm. The side armor is 20 mm (+5 mm difference) and the rear armor is 30 mm (+20 mm difference). The turret is slightly thinner than the original but the difference is negligible.
+
Compared to the ZSU-57-2, the upper glacis is significantly thicker at 45 mm of RHA compared to the original 13.5 mm. The side armour is 20 mm (+5 mm difference) and the rear armour is 30 mm (+20 mm difference). The turret is slightly thinner than the original but the difference is negligible.
  
−
The armor of the WZ305 is still very poor. While the upper glacis is now about as strong as a T-34, this level of protection does not amount to much at its rank. The paper-thin turret means that enemies with heavy machine guns or autocannons can mow down the turret crew and potentially knock out the tank with a single burst. The tank is also susceptible to hull break and impacts from nearby artillery shells.
+
The armour of the WZ305 is still very poor. While the upper glacis is now about as strong as a T-34, this level of protection does not amount to much at its rank. The paper-thin turret means that enemies with heavy machine guns or autocannons can mow down the turret crew and potentially knock out the tank with a single burst. The tank is also susceptible to hull break and impacts from nearby artillery shells.
  
 
=== Mobility ===
 
=== Mobility ===
 
<!-- ''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.'' -->
  
−
{{tankMobility|abMinHp= 824|rbMinHp= 513}}
+
{{tankMobility|abMinHp=824|rbMinHp=513}}
  
 
The mobility of the {{PAGENAME}} is about the same as the [[ZSU-57-2]], with a hp/ton ratio of 19, a top speed of 50 km/h, and a reverse speed of -7 km/h. While not lightning fast, it is considerably more mobile than contemporary Chinese MBTs like the [[Type 59]] and should have few issues keeping up with teammates. Flanking should be done with caution since proper light tanks and some MBTs are more mobile, especially on-road, and may appear suddenly.
 
The mobility of the {{PAGENAME}} is about the same as the [[ZSU-57-2]], with a hp/ton ratio of 19, a top speed of 50 km/h, and a reverse speed of -7 km/h. While not lightning fast, it is considerably more mobile than contemporary Chinese MBTs like the [[Type 59]] and should have few issues keeping up with teammates. Flanking should be done with caution since proper light tanks and some MBTs are more mobile, especially on-road, and may appear suddenly.
Line 26: Line 26:
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
 
=== Main armament ===
 
=== Main armament ===
−
<!--''Give the reader information about the characteristics of the main gun. Assess its effectiveness in a battle based on the reloading speed, ballistics and the power of shells. Do not forget about the flexibility of the fire, that is how quickly the cannon can be aimed at the target, open fire on it and aim at another enemy. Add a link to the main article on the gun: <code><nowiki>{{main|Name of the weapon}}</nowiki></code>. Describe in general terms the ammunition available for the main gun. Advise about how to use them and how to fill the ammunition storage.''-->
+
<!-- ''Give the reader information about the characteristics of the main gun. Assess its effectiveness in a battle based on the reloading speed, ballistics and the power of shells. Do not forget about the flexibility of the fire, that is how quickly the cannon can be aimed at the target, open fire on it and aim at another enemy. Add a link to the main article on the gun: <code><nowiki>{{main|Name of the weapon}}</nowiki></code>. Describe in general terms the ammunition available for the main gun. Give advice on how to use them and how to fill the ammunition storage.'' -->
−
 
 
 
{{main|WA318 (57 mm)}}
 
{{main|WA318 (57 mm)}}
  
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
−
|-
 
−
! colspan="6" | [[WA318 (57 mm)|57 mm WA318]] (x2)
 
−
|-
 
−
! colspan="2" rowspan="1" style="width:5em" |Capacity (Belt capacity each)
 
−
! rowspan="1" | Fire rate <br> (shots/minute)
 
−
! rowspan="1" | Vertical <br> guidance
 
−
! rowspan="1" | Horizontal <br> guidance
 
−
! rowspan="1" | Stabilizer
 
−
|-
 
−
| colspan="2" | 248 (4) || 120 || -5°/+85° || ±180° || N/A
 
−
|-
 
−
! colspan="6" | Turret rotation speed (°/s)
 
−
|-
 
−
! style="width:4em" |Mode
 
−
! style="width:4em" |Stock
 
−
! style="width:4em" |Upgraded
 
−
! style="width:4em" |Prior + Full crew
 
−
! style="width:4em" |Prior + Expert qualif.
 
−
! style="width:4em" |Prior + Ace qualif.
 
−
|-
 
−
| ''Arcade'' || 35.70 || 49.40 || 60.00 || 66.30 || 70.60
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| ''Realistic'' || 35.70 || 42.00 || 51.00 || 56.40 || 60.00
+
! colspan="5" | [[WA318 (57 mm)|57 mm WA318]] '''(x 2)''' || colspan="5" | Turret rotation speed (°/s) || colspan="4" | Reloading rate (seconds)
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="4" | Reloading rate (seconds)
+
! Mode !! Capacity (Belt capacity) !! Vertical !! Horizontal !! Stabilizer
 +
! Stock !! Upgraded !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
 +
! Stock !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="1" style="width:4em" |Stock
+
! ''Arcade''
−
! colspan="1" style="width:4em" |Prior + Full crew
+
| rowspan="2" | 300 (4) || rowspan="2" | -5°/+85° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | N/A || 31.7 || __.__ || __.__ || __.__ || __.__ || rowspan="2" | 2.6 || rowspan="2" | _.__ || rowspan="2" | _.__ || rowspan="2" | _.__
−
! colspan="1" style="width:4em" |Prior + Expert qualif.
 
−
! colspan="1" style="width:4em" |Prior + Ace qualif.
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| 2.6 || _._ || _._ || _._
+
! ''Realistic''
 +
| 21.4 || __.__ || __.__ || __.__ || __.__
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
−
=== Ammunition ===
+
==== Ammunition ====
 +
* '''Default:''' {{Annotation|HE|High-explosive fragmentation}}{{-}}{{Annotation|APCBC|Armour-piercing capped ballistic capped}} - 50% of this belt are useless against tanks or planes. However, against other SPAA this belt can reliably take out crew, armament, ammo and engine. Having one belt in reserve does not hurt.
 +
* '''BR-281:''' {{Annotation|APCBC|Armour-piercing capped ballistic capped}} - Intermediate usage until the better BR-281U rounds can be used. Decent enough versus light to medium tanks from the sides and rear.
 +
* '''OR-281U:''' {{Annotation|HE|High-explosive fragmentation}} - Versus planes. One or two hits usually gets the job done. Heavy armoured attackers and bombers may require more thought.
 +
* '''BR-281U:''' {{Annotation|APCBC|Armour-piercing capped ballistic capped}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HE|High-explosive fragmentation}} - Best penetrating rounds for the vehicle. At this Rank, the round is useful against moderately armoured tanks even from the front.
 +
* '''DKY-1:''' {{Annotation|HE-VT|High-explosive variable time fuze}} - Versus planes. Huge explosive mass will blow most aircraft out of the sky, 15 m trigger radius means that one can be much more lenient with aiming.
 +
 
 
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
−
! colspan="9" | Penetration statistics
+
! colspan="7" | Penetration statistics
 
|-
 
|-
 
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
 
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
−
! rowspan="2" class="unsortable" | Type of <br /> warhead
+
! colspan="6" | '''Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)'''
−
! colspan="6" | '''Penetration''' '''''in mm''''' '''@ 90°'''
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
! 10m
+
! 10 m !! 100 m !! 500 m !! 1,000 m !! 1,500 m !! 2,000 m
−
! 100m
 
−
! 500m
 
−
! 1000m
 
−
! 1500m
 
−
! 2000m
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| BR-281 || APHE || 121 || 119 || 106 || 91 || 78 || 68
+
| Default || 136 || 132 || 118 || 103 || 90 || 78
 
|-
 
|-
−
| BR-281U || AP-T || 142 || 140 || 116 || 91 || 72 || 56
+
| BR-281 || 136 || 132 || 118 || 103 || 90 || 78
−
|-
 
−
| OR-281U || HEFI-T || 4 || 4 || 4 || 4 || 4 || 4
 
−
|-
 
−
| DKY-1 || HE-VT || 8 || 8 || 8 || 8 || 8 || 8
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
−
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
−
! colspan="11" | Shell details
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
+
| OR-281U || 5 || 5 || 5 || 5 || 5 || 5
−
! rowspan="2" class="unsortable" | Type of <br /> warhead
 
−
! rowspan="2" |Velocity <br /> in m/s
 
−
! rowspan="2" |Projectile<br />Mass in kg
 
−
! rowspan="2" | ''Fuse delay''
 
−
''in m:''
 
−
! rowspan="2" | ''Fuse sensitivity''
 
−
''in mm:''
 
−
! rowspan="2" | ''Explosive Mass in g<br /> (TNT equivalent):''
 
−
! rowspan="2" | ''Normalization At 30° <br> from horizontal:''
 
−
! colspan="3" | ''Ricochet:''
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
! 0%
+
| BR-281U || 151 || 147 || 132 || 114 || 100 || 87
−
! 50%
 
−
! 100%
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| BR-281 || APHE || 1000 || 2.8 || 1.2 || 15 || 20.02 || -1° || 47° || 60° || 65°
+
| DKY-1 || 8 || 8 || 8 || 8 || 8 || 8
 
|-
 
|-
−
| BR-281U || AP-T || 1000 || 2.8 || N/A || N/A || N/A || -1° || 47° || 60° || 65°
 
−
|-
 
−
| OR-281U || HEFI-T || 1000 || 2.8 || 0.4 || 0.1 || 153 || +0° || 79° || 80° || 81°
 
−
|-
 
−
| DKY-1 || HE-VT || 1012 || 2.9 || 0.4 || 0.1 || 446.6 || +0° || 79° || 80° || 81°
 
−
 
 
|}
 
|}
  
−
===Belt types===
+
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
−
{| class="wikitable"
+
<!-- [[File:Ammoracks_{{PAGENAME}}.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}]] -->
−
| '''Belts''' || '''Shell composition'''  ||  '''Tips and usage'''
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
−
|-
 
−
| align="left" |'''Default'''||APHE &ndash; HEFI-T || 50% of this belt are useless against tanks or planes. However, against other SPAA this belt can reliably take out crew, armament, ammo and engine. Having one belt in reserve does not hurt.
 
−
|-
 
−
| align="left" |'''BR-281'''|| APHE || Intermediate usage until the better BR-281U rounds can be used. Decent enough versus light to medium tanks from the sides and rear.
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| align="left" |'''BR-281U'''|| AP-T &ndash; HEFI-T || Best penetrating rounds for the vehicle. At this Rank, the round is useful against moderately armoured tanks even from the front.
+
! Full<br>ammo
 +
! 1st<br>rack empty
 +
! 2nd<br>rack empty
 +
! 3rd<br>rack empty
 +
! 4th<br>rack empty
 +
! 5th<br>rack empty
 +
! 6th<br>rack empty
 +
! Visual<br>discrepancy
 
|-
 
|-
−
| align="left" |'''OR-281U'''|| HEFI-T || Versus planes. One or two hits usually gets the job done. Heavy armoured attackers and bombers may require more thought.
+
| '''300''' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __
 
|-
 
|-
−
| align="left" |'''DKY-1'''|| HE-VT || Versus planes. Huge explosive mass will blow most aircraft out of the sky, 15 m trigger radius means that one can be much more lenient with aiming.
 
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
== Usage in battles ==
−
<!--''Describe the tactics of playing in the vehicle, the features of using vehicles in the team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view but instead give the reader food for thought. Describe the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).''-->
+
<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the vehicle, the features of using vehicles in the team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view but instead give the reader food for thought. Describe the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
  
−
Like its Soviet cousin, the WZ305 is capable of slaughtering lightly armored vehicles, but using it in an anti-ground role is risky due to its lackluster defense. It is a good idea to play carefully and not expose oneself unnecessarily.
+
Like its Soviet cousin, the WZ305 is capable of slaughtering lightly armoured vehicles, but using it in an anti-ground role is risky due to its lacklustre defence. It is a good idea to play carefully and not expose oneself unnecessarily.
  
 
'''AAA'''<br />
 
'''AAA'''<br />
−
As an SPAA this should be the first course of action. Find a safe location from enemy ground vehicles, lay in wait and open fire on any enemies when they are in range. The powerful 57 mm cannons will tear apart any aircraft from the sky in 1-5 direct hits. If the fused HE shells are unlocked, this is even easier; the proximity fuse will make it much easier to land hits in general and maneuvering targets will have a harder time dodging your fire. The big downside is that the gunner crew are exposed to strafing aircraft and can easily be taken out by aircraft machine gun/cannon fire, so it is important to first prioritize aircraft which appear to be gunning for the WZ305.
+
As an SPAA this should be the first course of action. Find a safe location from enemy ground vehicles, lie in wait and open fire on any enemies when they are in range. The powerful 57 mm cannons will tear apart any aircraft from the sky in 1-5 direct hits. If the fused HE shells are unlocked, this is even easier; the proximity fuse will make it much easier to land hits in general and manoeuvring targets will have a harder time dodging your fire. The big downside is that the gunner crew are exposed to strafing aircraft and can easily be taken out by aircraft machine gun/cannon fire, so it is important to first prioritize aircraft which appear to be gunning for the WZ305.
  
 
'''Tank Destroyer'''<br />
 
'''Tank Destroyer'''<br />
−
Using the 57 mm cannons on a ground attack role is possible and have been exploited by many players. Using BR-281U ammo, the guns can effectively pierce the side and rear of any tank (excluding the Maus). Remember the WZ305's armour does not compare to other tanks armour so one shot could be the end of the SPAA. Play cat-and-mouse and wait for the enemy to go into an engagement with another target and then jump out into the open and fire upon them while they are distracted. It is recommended to the first aim for their rear to disable their engine and cause a fire, they will have to stop what they are doing and put it out. During this time they won't be able to move or fire upon the WZ305, allowing a chance to finish off the crewmen inside by unloading the 57 mm cannons into the side of the enemy tank.
+
Using the 57 mm cannons on a ground attack role is possible and have been exploited by many players. Using BR-281U ammo, the guns can effectively pierce the side and rear of any tank (excluding the Maus). Remember the WZ305's armour does not compare to other tanks armour so one shot could be the end of the SPAA. Play cat-and-mouse and wait for the enemy to go into an engagement with another target and then jump out into the open and fire upon them while they are distracted. It is recommended to the first aim for their rear to disable their engine and cause a fire, they will have to stop what they are doing and put it out. During this time they won't be able to move or fire upon the WZ305, allowing a chance to finish off the crewmen inside by unloading the 57 mm cannons into the side of the enemy tank.
  
−
Wheeled light tanks are quite common at the WZ305's rank and are easy prey for the twin cannons. The WZ305's thin armor is not much of a liability against subcaliber rounds, so it may be prudent to hunt these kinds of targets down if they are in the area. Lightly armored MBTs like the ubiquitous [[Leopard I]] can be dispatched similarly. Be wary of targets with heavier armor like the [[M48A1|M48 Patton]] that cannot be penetrated from the front. You will need to flank them instead. Enemy SPAAs like the [[Gepard]] will also have no problem shredding the turret crew, though most of these vehicles are also very lightly armored; try to ambush them and shoot first.
+
Wheeled light tanks are quite common at the WZ305's rank and are easy prey for the twin cannons. The WZ305's thin armour is not much of a liability against subcalibre rounds, so it may be prudent to hunt these kinds of targets down if they are in the area. Lightly armoured MBTs like the ubiquitous [[Leopard I]] can be dispatched similarly. Be wary of targets with heavier armour like the [[M48A1|M48 Patton]] that cannot be penetrated from the front. You will need to flank them instead. Enemy SPAAs like the [[Gepard]] will also have no problem shredding the turret crew, though most of these vehicles are also very lightly armoured; try to ambush them and shoot first.
  
 
Watch out for incoming HEAT-FS rounds, as they are common and will often cause hull breaks.
 
Watch out for incoming HEAT-FS rounds, as they are common and will often cause hull breaks.
 +
 +
=== Modules ===
 +
{| class="wikitable"
 +
! Tier
 +
! colspan="2" | Mobility
 +
! Protection
 +
! colspan="2" | Firepower
 +
|-
 +
| I
 +
| Tracks
 +
|
 +
| Parts
 +
| Horizontal Drive
 +
|
 +
|-
 +
| II
 +
| Suspension
 +
| Brake System
 +
| FPE
 +
| BR-281
 +
| Adjustment of Fire
 +
|-
 +
| III
 +
| Filters
 +
|
 +
| Crew Replenishment
 +
| BR-281U
 +
| Elevation Mechanism
 +
|-
 +
| IV
 +
| Transmission
 +
| Engine
 +
|
 +
| Artillery Support
 +
| DKY-1
 +
|-
 +
|}
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
−
<!--''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in a bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".''-->
+
<!-- ''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in a bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' -->
  
 
'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
Line 159: Line 151:
 
* HE-VT rounds are excellent against air targets
 
* HE-VT rounds are excellent against air targets
 
* Successful hits on air targets with any round are very lethal
 
* Successful hits on air targets with any round are very lethal
−
* Better hull armor than the ZSU-57-2
+
* Better hull armour than the ZSU-57-2
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
Line 169: Line 161:
 
* Difficult to use in anti-air role when stock
 
* Difficult to use in anti-air role when stock
 
* Can be confused for the ZSU-57-2 when hull-down or at a distance
 
* Can be confused for the ZSU-57-2 when hull-down or at a distance
−
 
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
−
<!--''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).''-->
+
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
  
 
In the 1980s, Iraq requested that China make a copy of the ZSU-57-2 and provided a few examples of the Soviet SPAAG for reverse engineering. China had not previously imported or used the ZSU-57-2. However, a local copy of the ZSU's gun was available. The result of the project was the Type 80 SPAAG, sometimes known by its industrial designation of '''WZ305'''. Designed on the chassis of the Type 69-II medium tank, the Type 80 was very similar to the ZSU-57-2, featuring twin 57 mm cannons in an open topped turret with no fire control systems, limiting it to clear weather anti-aircraft use. A proximity-fused round was later developed that improved its utility.
 
In the 1980s, Iraq requested that China make a copy of the ZSU-57-2 and provided a few examples of the Soviet SPAAG for reverse engineering. China had not previously imported or used the ZSU-57-2. However, a local copy of the ZSU's gun was available. The result of the project was the Type 80 SPAAG, sometimes known by its industrial designation of '''WZ305'''. Designed on the chassis of the Type 69-II medium tank, the Type 80 was very similar to the ZSU-57-2, featuring twin 57 mm cannons in an open topped turret with no fire control systems, limiting it to clear weather anti-aircraft use. A proximity-fused round was later developed that improved its utility.
  
−
According to some sources, the Type 80 was adopted by the PLA in small numbers, while others claim that it was not accepted into Chinese service at all. It was used in Iraqi service in the Iran-Iraq War and Gulf War, and may have been exported to North Korea.  
+
According to some sources, the Type 80 was adopted by the PLA in small numbers, while others claim that it was not accepted into Chinese service at all. It was used in Iraqi service in the Iran-Iraq War and Gulf War, and may have been exported to North Korea.
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
Line 182: Line 173:
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
−
 
+
<!-- ''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
−
* [[ZSU-57-2]]
+
* ''reference to the series of the vehicles;''
 +
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' -->
 +
* [[ZSU-57-2]] - Russian counterpart
  
 
== External links ==
 
== External links ==
 
''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
 
''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
−
 
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''encyclopedia page on the tank;''
 
* ''encyclopedia page on the tank;''

Revision as of 12:41, 28 April 2020

Rank VI Israel | Premium | Golden Eagles
Merkava Mk.2D Pack
WZ305
cn_wz_305.png
WZ305
China flag.png China
V Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
8.7 8.0 8.0
Class:
Research:105 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:300 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

GarageImage WZ305.jpg


The Wu Zhuang 305 is a rank V Chinese SPAA with a battle rating of 8.7 (AB) and 8.0 (RB/SB). It was introduced in Update 1.95 "Northern Wind".

The Chinese counterpart to the infamous ZSU-57-2, the WZ305 will feel very familiar to veteran users of the "Sparka". While outwardly similar, there are some differences. The hull is developed from a later Type 69 variant, as opposed to the ZSU's chassis derived from the T-54. Cosmetic differences include fender-mounted headlights, side skirts, and the retention of all five road wheels. The WZ305's hull is better armoured, though this adds about 3 tons to its weight, and has a slightly more powerful engine. Firepower wise it enjoys a new DKY-1 airburst HE shell that makes it much easier to use against aircraft.

General info

Survivability and armour

Compared to the ZSU-57-2, the upper glacis is significantly thicker at 45 mm of RHA compared to the original 13.5 mm. The side armour is 20 mm (+5 mm difference) and the rear armour is 30 mm (+20 mm difference). The turret is slightly thinner than the original but the difference is negligible.

The armour of the WZ305 is still very poor. While the upper glacis is now about as strong as a T-34, this level of protection does not amount to much at its rank. The paper-thin turret means that enemies with heavy machine guns or autocannons can mow down the turret crew and potentially knock out the tank with a single burst. The tank is also susceptible to hull break and impacts from nearby artillery shells.

Mobility

Game Mode Max Speed (km/h) Weight (tons) Engine power (horsepower) Power-to-weight ratio (hp/ton)
Forward Reverse Stock Upgraded Stock Upgraded
Arcade 55 9 31 824 1,107 26.58 35.71
Realistic 51 8 513 580 16.55 18.71

The mobility of the WZ305 is about the same as the ZSU-57-2, with a hp/ton ratio of 19, a top speed of 50 km/h, and a reverse speed of -7 km/h. While not lightning fast, it is considerably more mobile than contemporary Chinese MBTs like the Type 59 and should have few issues keeping up with teammates. Flanking should be done with caution since proper light tanks and some MBTs are more mobile, especially on-road, and may appear suddenly.

Armaments

Main armament

Main article: WA318 (57 mm)
57 mm WA318 (x 2) Turret rotation speed (°/s) Reloading rate (seconds)
Mode Capacity (Belt capacity) Vertical Horizontal Stabilizer Stock Upgraded Full Expert Aced Stock Full Expert Aced
Arcade 300 (4) -5°/+85° ±180° N/A 31.7 __.__ __.__ __.__ __.__ 2.6 _.__ _.__ _.__
Realistic 21.4 __.__ __.__ __.__ __.__

Ammunition

  • Default: HE · APCBC - 50% of this belt are useless against tanks or planes. However, against other SPAA this belt can reliably take out crew, armament, ammo and engine. Having one belt in reserve does not hurt.
  • BR-281: APCBC - Intermediate usage until the better BR-281U rounds can be used. Decent enough versus light to medium tanks from the sides and rear.
  • OR-281U: HE - Versus planes. One or two hits usually gets the job done. Heavy armoured attackers and bombers may require more thought.
  • BR-281U: APCBC · HE - Best penetrating rounds for the vehicle. At this Rank, the round is useful against moderately armoured tanks even from the front.
  • DKY-1: HE-VT - Versus planes. Huge explosive mass will blow most aircraft out of the sky, 15 m trigger radius means that one can be much more lenient with aiming.
Penetration statistics
Ammunition Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)
10 m 100 m 500 m 1,000 m 1,500 m 2,000 m
Default 136 132 118 103 90 78
BR-281 136 132 118 103 90 78
OR-281U 5 5 5 5 5 5
BR-281U 151 147 132 114 100 87
DKY-1 8 8 8 8 8 8

Ammo racks

Full
ammo 		1st
rack empty 		2nd
rack empty 		3rd
rack empty 		4th
rack empty 		5th
rack empty 		6th
rack empty 		Visual
discrepancy
300 __ (+__) __ (+__) __ (+__) __ (+__) __ (+__) __ (+__) __

Usage in battles

Like its Soviet cousin, the WZ305 is capable of slaughtering lightly armoured vehicles, but using it in an anti-ground role is risky due to its lacklustre defence. It is a good idea to play carefully and not expose oneself unnecessarily.

AAA
As an SPAA this should be the first course of action. Find a safe location from enemy ground vehicles, lie in wait and open fire on any enemies when they are in range. The powerful 57 mm cannons will tear apart any aircraft from the sky in 1-5 direct hits. If the fused HE shells are unlocked, this is even easier; the proximity fuse will make it much easier to land hits in general and manoeuvring targets will have a harder time dodging your fire. The big downside is that the gunner crew are exposed to strafing aircraft and can easily be taken out by aircraft machine gun/cannon fire, so it is important to first prioritize aircraft which appear to be gunning for the WZ305.

Tank Destroyer
Using the 57 mm cannons on a ground attack role is possible and have been exploited by many players. Using BR-281U ammo, the guns can effectively pierce the side and rear of any tank (excluding the Maus). Remember the WZ305's armour does not compare to other tanks armour so one shot could be the end of the SPAA. Play cat-and-mouse and wait for the enemy to go into an engagement with another target and then jump out into the open and fire upon them while they are distracted. It is recommended to the first aim for their rear to disable their engine and cause a fire, they will have to stop what they are doing and put it out. During this time they won't be able to move or fire upon the WZ305, allowing a chance to finish off the crewmen inside by unloading the 57 mm cannons into the side of the enemy tank.

Wheeled light tanks are quite common at the WZ305's rank and are easy prey for the twin cannons. The WZ305's thin armour is not much of a liability against subcalibre rounds, so it may be prudent to hunt these kinds of targets down if they are in the area. Lightly armoured MBTs like the ubiquitous Leopard I can be dispatched similarly. Be wary of targets with heavier armour like the M48 Patton that cannot be penetrated from the front. You will need to flank them instead. Enemy SPAAs like the Gepard will also have no problem shredding the turret crew, though most of these vehicles are also very lightly armoured; try to ambush them and shoot first.

Watch out for incoming HEAT-FS rounds, as they are common and will often cause hull breaks.

Modules

Tier Mobility Protection Firepower
I Tracks Parts Horizontal Drive
II Suspension Brake System FPE BR-281 Adjustment of Fire
III Filters Crew Replenishment BR-281U Elevation Mechanism
IV Transmission Engine Artillery Support DKY-1

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Excellent firepower for a SPAA, capable of hunting tanks
  • Decent mobility
  • Good gun handling
  • HE-VT rounds are excellent against air targets
  • Successful hits on air targets with any round are very lethal
  • Better hull armour than the ZSU-57-2

Cons:

  • Inadequate protection and survivability
  • Large target
  • HE-VT rounds are a Tier IV modification
  • Vulnerable to hull break
  • Difficult to use in anti-air role when stock
  • Can be confused for the ZSU-57-2 when hull-down or at a distance

History

In the 1980s, Iraq requested that China make a copy of the ZSU-57-2 and provided a few examples of the Soviet SPAAG for reverse engineering. China had not previously imported or used the ZSU-57-2. However, a local copy of the ZSU's gun was available. The result of the project was the Type 80 SPAAG, sometimes known by its industrial designation of WZ305. Designed on the chassis of the Type 69-II medium tank, the Type 80 was very similar to the ZSU-57-2, featuring twin 57 mm cannons in an open topped turret with no fire control systems, limiting it to clear weather anti-aircraft use. A proximity-fused round was later developed that improved its utility.

According to some sources, the Type 80 was adopted by the PLA in small numbers, while others claim that it was not accepted into Chinese service at all. It was used in Iraqi service in the Iran-Iraq War and Gulf War, and may have been exported to North Korea.

Media

Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.

See also

External links

Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:

  • topic on the official game forum;
  • encyclopedia page on the tank;
  • other literature.


China anti-aircraft vehicles
Radar SPAAG  PGZ09
Gun and Missile SPAAG  PGZ04A
Other  ZSD63/PG87 · WZ305
Germany  ␗Sd.Kfz.222
North Vietnam  Phòng không T-34
USA  CCKW 353 (M45) · ␗M42
USSR  Tor-M1

Retrieved from "https://wiki.warthunder.com/index.php?title=WZ305&oldid=50300"